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By Jeffrey Archer
Directed by John Kelland
Performed on Thursday 17 - Saturday 19 March 2005 at Pentyrch Village Hall
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Summary Take your seats in the jury for one of the most compelling courtroom dramas of all time… In the Old Bailey, distinguished QC Sir David Metcalf is conducting the most important defence of his career - his own. Accused of murdering his wife, Sir David finds himself locked in legal combat with his old arch enemy Anthony Blair Booth.Step back in time to that fateful night, as the whole truth is revealed in this nail-biting thriller. You'll be on the edge of your seat as tensions build to an unexpected and shocking twist! NODA Review of 'Beyond Reasonable Doubt' Jeffrey Archer's political career might be politely describes as 'chequered' but there can be no doubt about his skill at plot construction in his novels and plays. This intriguing play, skilfully directed by John Kelland, is an excellent example. Leading barrister Sir David Metcalfe, played with subtlety and power by the outstanding Dai Williams, is accused of murdering his terminally ill wife. The first half of the action takes place in court, where his adversary, prosecuting counsel Anthony Blair Booth, excellently portrayed by Phil Davies, hounds Sir David. Good support here from Heather Major as the judge and witnesses Steve Williams, Karen Claridge and Brenda Slaughter, particularly good as the suspicious housekeeper whose damning testimony is the centrepiece of the prosecution's case. At the conclusion of the trial the audience, representing the jury, are asked to deliver their verdict by ballot. The second half is a flashback to the events leading up to the death. We see the loving relationship between Sir David and his wife Millie, expertly realised by Sian Davies, and the close friendship of solicitor Lionel Hamilton and junior counsel Robert Pearson, well acted by John Major and Richard Jones respectively. The emotional ending is well handled by all concerned, including the expected twist of plot at the end. The verdict of the audience is announced at the conclusion of the play. With good pace throughout, the principals had excellent support from the minor characters, and an effective set, especially for act 2. Hilltop are rapidly gaining a reputation for excellent drama. A large and appreciative audience had a most enjoyable evening. Reviewed by Tom Dyer. Cast Court Usher Rhys Stapleton Clerk of the Court Anna Constantinou Justice Tredwell Heather Major Anthony Blair Booth QC Phil Davies Lionel Hamilton John Major Det Chief Inspector Travers Steve Williams Sir David Metcalfe QC Dai Williams Mrs Rogers Brenda Slaughter Dr Joanne Weeden Karen Claridge Mr Cole Ian Jones Robert Pierson Richard Jones Lady Metcalfe Sian Davies Prison Officer Martyn Lench
Production Team Producer/Director John Kelland Production Assistant Raynor Phinnemor Stage Manager Wayne Brewer Assistant Stage Manager Nathan Brown Properties Raynor Phinnemor Set Design & Construction Wayne Brewer, Raynor Phinnemor, Josh Krip, Nathan Brown, Owain Davies Lighting Sarah Thomas Sound Josh Krip Continuity Anne Morris Rehearsal Assistant Sara Pickard Business Manager Bob Petersen House Manager Bob Petersen Front of House Members/Friends of Hilltop Box Office Heather Major |
